Hiya!
I am not one to voice my opinion on the many “issues” and politics going on. But, it deeply depresses and saddens me to see what is happening in our world today. I believe in justice and equality for ALL peoples! I don’t understand why we can’t all just “be nice” to one another and treat and respect others the way we want to be treated and respected. On to a happier note.
Coco Channel was known for her pearls. “A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls.” – Coco Chanel Pearls are classic.
“Pearls are always appropriate.” – Jackie Kennedy
And, pearls are June’s birthstone. Happy Birthday June!
Pearls have been valued as gemstones for millennia. However, unlike other valued gemstones; diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires pearls are certainly gems but not stones! While these others form as minerals underground, pearls have organic origins. Pearls are somewhat a freak of nature! Unlike gemstones which are mined from the earth, a living organism produces a pearl. A pearl is formed when an irritant of some sort like a shell or parasite becomes lodged in an oyster’s soft inner body causing the oyster to secrete a crystalline substance building up around the irritant thus forming a pearl!
Pearls are the world’s oldest gems. Pearls were first recorded in history by a Chinese historian in 2,206 BC. There was a fragment of pearl jewelry found in the tomb of a Persian princess dating back to 420 BC and is now on display at the Louvre in Paris.
Historically pearls were found in the Persian Gulf. Today, however natural pearls are extremely rare as most already have been harvested. Cultured pearls are grown in pearl farms. Pearls can be found in both saltwater and in freshwater. Saltwater pearls include akoya pearls grown in Japanese and Chinese waters.
Australia, Indonesian, and the Philippines produce the South Sea pearl the king (largest) of all pearls.
Tahitian pearls not only come from Tahiti but are grown on several French Polynesian Islands. They are collectively called black pearls, but naturally occur in gray, blue green and purple as well as black.
Freshwater pearls are grown in freshwater lakes, rivers and ponds, predominately in China. Many are white and resemble the akoya cultured pearl. They can however, be produced in various shapes, sizes and pastel colors!
Imitation pearls are usually a coated glass bead. It is possible to distinguish imitation pearls from cultured or natural pearls but it can be a challenge to tell the difference between cultured and natural pearls as many pearls often undergo treatments to increase their luster or alter their color.
I am sure you have heard the expression “pearls of wisdom.” Pearls are known to symbolize wisdom acquired through experience. They are believed to attract wealth and luck as well as offer protection. Pearls are known for their calming effect. They can help to balance one’s karma, while strengthening relationships. The pearl is also said to symbolize the purity, generosity, and integrity which is one reason why many times brides often wear pearls!
Even if you are not a June baby, “Pearls are always appropriate.” – Jackie Kennedy
Until next time, stay safe, stay well!
ENJOY!!